Paper Bag Luminaries

There's no denying that candlelight can contribute festive (and flattering) light to any event or décor. In some cases, however, an open flame may not be the safest option, or may even be prohibited. Now there's a safe alternative to votives: battery-operated "smart candles." These flame-free light sources create a similar effect as a flickering votive, but without the fire risk. But, since they still can't hold a candle (so to speak) to a real candle in terms of looks-it's best to disguise them. One great way is to make paper bag luminaries.

Instructions

1 Purchase paper bags. The classic brown lunch bag will do nicely, but if you prefer another color, they are available from many craft stores or online. The traditional lunch bag-size works, but smaller versions can be equally attractive. If the luminaries will be used outdoors, the large size might work better, while indoors on a mantel or table, a mix of smaller bags could be lovely. You can find bags at craft stores or online at www.jianoupaperlanterns.com (see link below). Be sure to buy the gusseted-style bag; they're sometimes also called SOS bags.

2 Buy LED Candles. They are available at a number of stores, but can also be purchased online at LED candle You will need one per bag.

3 Gather sand. The candles are not very heavy, so to help weigh down the bags, fill each with a cup or two of sand. Small stones can also work, but you want to make sure that whatever you use is small enough that it will lie flat in the bag, so as not to cast a shadow when the "candle" is lit.

4 If you want to leave the paper bags plain, all you need to do now is fill each bag with a bit of sand (just enough that is seems stable) and place the "candle" inside. You can either fold the top of the bag closed, as you would if there was a sandwich inside, or fold the top of the bag out instead, which will keep the bag open.

5 You can also opt not to fold the top of the bag at all, especially if you're using smaller bags made of stiffer paper. They look perfectly lovely standing upright unembellished, but to add a decorative touch, use craft punches or scissors with decorative edges to give the tops of the bags extra pizzazz.

6 If you want to further embellish your bags, stencil a monogram or a shape onto the bag. Keep the image large and relatively simple for maximum effect.